Welcome to the Windy City’s premier global gateway, O’Hare International Airport (ORD)! As one of the busiest airports in the world, O’Hare is a city within itself, connecting millions of passengers to virtually every corner of the globe. Navigating such a vast airport can seem daunting, but don’t you worry! We at OneStopParking are here to demystify O’Hare Airport and help you glide through your travel experience. This guide is your all-access pass to understanding ORD’s terminals, amenities, transport options, and most importantly, how to score fantastic O’Hare Airport parking without the usual stress.
Getting To & From O’Hare International Airport
Given its size and importance, O’Hare is well-connected to Chicago and its surrounding suburbs.
- Public Transportation – The CTA Blue Line & Metra:
- CTA Blue Line: This is often the most economical and efficient way to travel between downtown Chicago and O’Hare Airport. The Blue Line train runs 24/7, and the O’Hare station is located on the lower level of the main parking garage (between Terminals 1, 2, and 3). Follow signs for “Trains to City.”
- Metra North Central Service: This commuter rail line offers service to O’Hare from downtown Chicago’s Union Station and the north/northwest suburbs. The “O’Hare Transfer” station is connected to the airport’s Multi-Modal Facility (MMF) via a free shuttle bus.
- Rideshares (Uber/Lyft):
Pickups for standard Uber/Lyft services are located on the Upper Level (Departures) between Terminals 1 & 2 (Zone A or B) and between Terminals 2 & 3 (Zone B or C), and at Terminal 5 (Arrivals, Lower Level, Door 5A). Always confirm your pickup zone in your app. Premium rideshares may have different pickup points. - Taxis:
Taxi stands are available on the lower level (Arrivals) of each domestic terminal and outside Door 5B on the lower level of Terminal 5. - Rental Cars:
All rental car companies are housed in the Multi-Modal Facility (MMF). Free shuttle buses, clearly marked “Rental Cars / Parking Lot F,” run 24/7 from the baggage claim (lower level) curb front of each terminal to the MMF.
Navigating O’Hare Airport: Terminals & Airlines
O’Hare International Airport is massive, with four main passenger terminals: 1, 2, 3 (primarily domestic) and 5 (primarily international, but also some domestic arrivals/departures).
- Terminal 1: Mainly serves United Airlines (it’s a major United hub) and some Star Alliance partners like Lufthansa and ANA. Known for its iconic “Sky’s the Limit” neon light tunnel.
- Terminal 2: Hosts Alaska Airlines, Air Canada, Delta, JetBlue, and some United Express flights.
- Terminal 3: Primarily serves American Airlines (another major hub for them) and some Oneworld alliance partners like Japan Airlines and Iberia, as well as Spirit Airlines and other domestic carriers.
- Terminal 5 (International Terminal): This is the main international terminal, serving most international carriers and handling international arrivals for United and American. It also hosts some domestic flights for Frontier and Southwest Airlines.
Getting Between Terminals: The Airport Transit System (ATS), also known as the “people mover,” is a free, 24/7 automated train system that connects all four terminals and the Multi-Modal Facility (MMF), which includes Economy Parking Lot F, the Kiss ‘n’ Fly, and rental car services. Walking between Terminals 1, 2, and 3 pre-security is also possible, but the ATS is generally recommended for longer distances or when going to/from Terminal 5 or the MMF.
Major airlines at ORD include United Airlines, American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, Southwest Airlines, Spirit Airlines, JetBlue, Alaska Airlines, Frontier Airlines, and a vast array of international carriers.
Amenities & Facilities at ORD
As you’d expect from a world-class airport, O’Hare Airport is brimming with amenities.
- Food & Drink: You are spoiled for choice! From Chicago staples like Garrett Popcorn Shops and Tortas Frontera by Rick Bayless to global chains like McDonald’s and Starbucks, and upscale dining like Berghoff Cafe or Wicker Park Seafood & Sushi. Options abound in every terminal.
- Shopping: Whether you need a last-minute travel essential, a Chicago souvenir, luxury goods, or a good book, O’Hare has it. Find everything from newsstands and bookstores to high-end boutiques.
- Wi-Fi: Free Wi-Fi is available throughout all terminals. Connect to the “Boingo Hotspot” or “_Free_ORD_Wi-Fi” network.
- Charging Stations: Power up your devices at numerous charging stations, many integrated into seating areas at gates and in food courts.
- Pet Relief Areas: O’Hare offers several pet relief areas, both pre- and post-security, including an indoor one in Terminal 3’s Rotunda.
- Lounges: Numerous airline lounges (United Clubs, American Admirals Clubs, Delta Sky Club) and some independent lounges like the Swissport Lounge in Terminal 5 are available for eligible passengers.
- Art & Exhibits: O’Hare has an impressive public art program, including the famous “Sky’s the Limit” neon installation by Michael Hayden in the tunnel connecting Concourses B and C in Terminal 1, and various other exhibits throughout the terminals.
- Yoga Room: Find your zen in the Yoga Room located in Terminal 3’s Rotunda.
- Family Lounges: Some terminals offer family lounges with kid-friendly amenities.
- Hilton O’Hare: Uniquely, there’s a Hilton hotel directly connected to the domestic terminals (1, 2, and 3) via underground walkways, perfect for long layovers or very early flights.
On-Site Parking at O’Hare Airport
O’Hare International Airport offers a range of on-site parking solutions:
- Main Garage (Hourly & Daily): Adjacent to Terminals 1, 2, and 3. Hourly parking is on Level 1, Daily parking on Levels 2-6.
- Daily Lots B & C: Located near the Main Garage, also offering daily parking.
- Terminal 5 Lot D: Offers daily parking directly adjacent to Terminal 5.
- Economy Lots (G, H, F): These are the most budget-friendly on-site options, located further from the terminals and connected by the ATS (Lot F) or shuttle buses (Lots G & H).
- Valet Parking: Available at the Main Garage for Terminals 1, 2, and 3.
While convenient, on-site O’Hare Airport parking can be very expensive, especially for longer trips, and the most desirable lots often fill up quickly.
The Smart & Savvy Choice: Off-Site O’Hare Airport Parking with OneStopParking!
Why endure the stress of circling crowded, pricey airport lots when OneStopParking offers a brilliant alternative? We partner with reputable hotels and dedicated parking facilities near ORD to provide you with guaranteed, affordable O’Hare Airport parking. Pre-booking with us means peace of mind and significant savings!
Here are some of our top-notch options for O’Hare Airport:
- Best Western O’Hare North (ORD)
- Distance: 5.8 miles from Chicago O’Hare Airport (ORD).
- Shuttle: Runs from 7 AM – 11 PM, on the top of every hour.
- Price: A fantastic $7.95 per day!
- Why choose Best Western O’Hare North? It’s a very budget-friendly option with reliable, scheduled shuttle service.
- Routes Airport Parking (ORD)
- Distance: Just 3 miles from Chicago O’Hare Airport (ORD).
- Shuttle: Incredible 24/7 on-demand shuttle service to and from the airport!
- Features: Gated facility, Security Cameras, Valet service.
- Price: Excellent value at $11.95 per day.
- Why choose Routes Airport Parking? The 24/7 on-demand shuttle is a massive perk, especially for flights at odd hours. Plus, the added security and valet service offer extra convenience and peace of mind.
- Holiday Inn Express O’Hare (ORD)
- Distance: 5.4 miles from Chicago O’Hare Airport (ORD).
- Shuttle: Available from 5 AM to 10 PM, every hour.
- Features: Security Cameras, Wheelchair Accessible, Self-Park.
- Price: A steal at $6.95 per day!
- Why choose Holiday Inn Express O’Hare? This is one of our most economical options, offering great value, accessibility, and regular shuttle service during its operating hours.
By choosing OneStopParking for your O’Hare Airport parking, you’re not just saving money; you’re ensuring a reserved spot and a hassle-free shuttle ride directly to your terminal.
Hotels Near O’Hare Airport
With the sheer volume of flights, many travelers find themselves needing an overnight stay. There’s a plethora of hotels near O’Hare Airport, catering to all budgets and preferences. Many offer “Park, Sleep, Fly” packages that can be incredibly convenient. Besides the Hilton O’Hare directly at the airport, options abound in nearby Rosemont and surrounding areas, including brands like:
- Hyatt Regency O’Hare Chicago
- Marriott Chicago O’Hare
- Crowne Plaza Chicago O’Hare Hotel & Conference Center
- Loews O’Hare Hotel
- The Westin O’Hare
Many of our parking partners, like the Best Western and Holiday Inn Express, also offer comfortable accommodations if you need an overnight stay!
Tips for a Smooth ORD Experience
- Arrive VERY Early: O’Hare is huge and consistently busy. We recommend arriving at least 2-3 hours before domestic flights and 3-4 hours before international flights.
- Know Your Terminal & Gate: Check your flight status and terminal/gate information before you leave for the airport.
- Use the ATS: Familiarize yourself with the Airport Transit System for inter-terminal transfers.
- Security Lines: Check TSA wait times on the MyTSA app or the O’Hare website. ORD has TSA PreCheck and CLEAR lanes which can save significant time if you’re enrolled.
- Wear Comfortable Shoes: You’ll likely be doing a fair bit of walking!
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O’Hare International Airport is a bustling hub of global travel, and with a little planning, your experience can be smooth and efficient. Let OneStopParking take the parking puzzle off your plate. Our easy-to-use booking system and fantastic deals on O’Hare Airport parking ensure your trip starts and ends on a high note.
Next time you’re flying from O’Hare Airport, make OneStopParking your first stop for parking. We’re committed to making your travel simpler and more affordable!